Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon was detained for several hours by immigration officials at an airport in New York, the Spanish champions said on their website (www.real madrid.com) yesterday.

The confusion came because his surname figured in a blacklist held by the immigration service. The Spanish government helped clarify matters and he was released to continue his personal visit, the club said.

There is increased security in New York because President George W. Bush is in the city to attend a United Nations meeting.

Former Spain and Real Madrid defender Fernando Hierro is to be the new sporting director of the Spanish Football Federation. The 39-year-old, who retired in 2005 after a season with Premier League Bolton, won 89 caps and scored 29 goals for Spain.

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